Levels in60146Nd populated by the (n,n'γ) reaction

Abstract

Levels in 146Nd have been studied using the (n, n' gamma ) reaction with reactor fast neutrons. Excited states up to 3.2 MeV were populated. Angular distributions of gamma rays with respect to the neutron beam have been measured. Seven new states at 1602.7, 1918.9, 2119.5, 2208.4, 2756.9, 3058.6 and 3179.0 keV have been proposed and assigned as Jpi =0+, 4+, 2+, 2+, (1,2), 5+ and (3,5)+ respectively. Spin values of eleven of the previously known levels have been determined for the first time and spin restrictions placed on seven additional levels. The angular distributions of gamma rays from twelve other levels were consistent with their previously established spin assignments. The mixing ratios for several gamma transitions were deduced and compared, where possible, with values obtained by the 'complete alignment method' and with those previously reported by other authors. The levels of 146Nd have been compared with IBA model predictions.